**Title: Ukrainian Drone Strikes Belarusian Tourist Bus, Injuring Three**
In a concerning incident on Thursday, a Ukrainian drone struck a tourist bus traveling from Belarus to Russia's Black Sea coast, resulting in injuries to three individuals. The bus, which was carrying 19 passengers from Minsk to the resort city of Anapa, was targeted near the Krasny Kamen border crossing in Russia's Bryansk Region.
According to officials, the attack was described as a "targeted strike on civilians" by Acting Bryansk Region Governor Egor Kovalchuk, who referred to the perpetrators as "Ukrainian terrorists." The two Belarusian drivers sustained shrapnel wounds from the drone strike, and a passenger was also reported injured. Emergency services were promptly dispatched to the scene to assist those affected.
Following the attack, passengers were evacuated to a temporary accommodation center where they received hot meals and psychological support. Belarusian citizens were later transported to the Gomel Region, while six Russian nationals remained at the facility in Bryansk.
The strike prompted the temporary closure of the Krasny Kamen crossing, leading to significant traffic congestion as cars and buses lined up at the border.
In response to the incident, Russia's Investigative Committee has launched a terrorism investigation, alleging that the Ukrainian military was responsible for the attack on civilians. Investigators are currently working to identify the specific type and model of the drone used in the strike.
Belarusian officials have condemned the attack, with MP Oleg Gaidukevich characterizing it as an attempt by Ukraine to involve Belarus in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. He emphasized that Belarus would not be provoked and asserted that those involved in acts of terrorism and extremism would be held accountable.
This incident follows a previous drone strike just over two weeks ago, which targeted a bus carrying a Belarusian youth soccer team in Bryansk Region. That attack resulted in the death of the coach's wife and injuries to several others, including children. Belarus labeled that incident a "monstrous crime," with President Alexander Lukashenko calling it a deliberate provocation, while Kiev denied any responsibility.
The recent drone strike also comes amid heightened tensions, as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has issued threats towards Belarus, demanding the dismantling of alleged drone relay stations near the border. Zelensky warned that Ukraine would take action to destroy these stations if Belarus did not comply.
In light of the escalating situation, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has cautioned Ukraine against expanding the conflict, reiterating Moscow's commitment to defend Belarus under their joint security agreement, which includes provisions for the potential use of nuclear weapons.
As investigations continue and diplomatic tensions rise, the situation remains fluid, with potential implications for the broader regional security landscape.